Are social constructivist approaches critical? : the case of IS failure

Abstract

The critical tradition in information systems research, according to Howcroft (Manchester Business School, U. of Manchester, UK) and Trauth (School of Information Sciences and Technology, US), is characterized by the themes of emancipation from power relations, critique of tradition, rejection of the primacy of economic efficiency (non-performative intent), critique of technological determination, and methodological reflexitivity. Intending to highlight the major strands of the critical tradition, they present 10 essays addressing conceptual and theoretical issues and eight demonstrating the application of theory. Topics include the ethics of information systems, critical discourse analysis of information systems, management fashions and information systems, Marxist critique of at-home tele-work, rationalities and emotions in information systems innovation, evaluating e-governance projects in India, mediated work in global business systems, and tele-health in the United Kingdom